From our archives:

80 years ago

Wetherby Agricultural Show had maintained its reputation as one of the best one-day shows in the North. With an estimated 6,000 visitors the show, admirably staged in the spacious grounds of Grange Park by kind permission of Sir Ronald Gunter and Mr W Webster, had certainly set a new attendance record. The display of livestock was remarkably good in view of the difficulties as a result of a spring drought and hunters of notable wealth had entered an exceptional show of farm horses. The first of a series of three mission services for homeward-bound cyclists and motorists had attracted a congregation of several hundred people to York Minster. The service, impressive in its simplicity and sincerity, was conducted by Canon C C Bell, Precentor, who during the address, stressed the importance of the freedom of English home life, a liberty given by years of Christianity.

50 years ago

Five students had been suspended from Bradford University Union until July 31 after jeering and shouting down Conservative MP Mr Duncan Sandys, whilst he tried to address a meeting. Tired of trying to make himself heard, Mr Sandys gave up his speech and left, with students beating their fists on his car. Mr Sandys, who was accompanied by his wife, then drove to York to attend a private dinner at the Royal Station Hotel, organised by the York University Monday Club. And York City Police had warned that children were endangering themselves and river traffic by swimming from the Ouse Bridge. One spokesman said: "Just because the outside temperature had risen it does not follow that the water temperature has also risen."

20 years ago

An ominous silence filled the streets of Marseilles as England fans prepared for the first stage of their team’s impending World Cup battle. The sunny town which had resounded to the sound of God Save The Queen and It’s Coming Home during the night had later been transformed into a battlefield as English fans were antagonised by Tunisian supporters. As football fans spilled into the streets from bars, police dressed in riot gear and armed with CS gas had to barricade the streets leading to the port. And a nine-inch teddy bear produced in memory of Princess Diana had become one of the most sought-after toys in the world. The “Princess” Beanie Baby, originally less than £4, were selling for £300 in the US.